Paul Scholes is relishing the challenge after being appointed Oldham Athletic manager and trying to succeed where others have failed in bringing back the glory days.
But it is the “uncertainty” that excites the Manchester United legend as he embarks upon his first job in management.
The 44-year-old from nearby Saddleworth, who had previously been linked with the job, admitted the timing felt right after he signed an 18-month contract.
“It may be the biggest mistake of my life, but then it may be the best thing I ever do. There is an uncertainty about it,” he explained.
“It was something I needed to give a go. I have been excited by it for a good while and if it comes off great. If it doesn’t at least I have given it a go.”
Scholes’ appointment attracted a 43-strong press contingent, a stark contrast to the usual presence of one local radio station and a student from a local journalism course.
He was asked why now and why at Latics to which he replied: “I just feel ready. There has been times in the past when it has been an option for me, but it didn’t feel right.
“I wanted to come into it with my full coaching badges which I now have with my ‘A’ licence which I did two years ago.”
Scholes, who admitted to hardly sleeping the night before he took charge, added he had followed their progress closely and they are a good team with some very good players.
He said: “I know we are mid-table but, with the squad we have, I think we should be pushing for promotion.
“That may be a little out of reach for this year, but certainly for next season.
“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t feel excited by the team. I have watched football at all levels and the basic apply at any level whether non-league or the Premier League.
“I am excited by the team as it is a group of players at a good age. There are a couple of their thirties, but you need that experience.
“There is quality in the squad and I think we have a team that is capable of doing very well which is why I am here.
“As for style of play, I know we cannot play like Manchester United, but I want an entertaining and attacking style of football, winning games and scoring goals.”
Paul Scholes and his family connection to Oldham Athletic
Scholes, whose father was always a Latics’ fan and took him to games as a boy, added he hopes to succeed where other managers have failed explaining it has been 20/30 years since there has been excitement at the club.
He said: “It has always seemed to be a club fighting relegation as much as other managers have tried to give it a lift.
“It has been difficult and I am like every other manager who has been at the club in that time in wanting to change it. I am hoping I can do that.”
Scholes added he will be contacting the likes of Class of 92 members Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs for advice while he is certain Sir Alex Ferguson will be on the end of the phone if needed.
“There is Gary and what he did at Valencia, Ryan with Wales and United under (Louis) van Gaal for a couple of years. They all have experiences and I will be speaking to them a lot,” he said.
He explained the delay with the appointment was caused by his involvement at Salford City where he holds a 10 per cent stake in the club and there was the potential of the two clubs playing one another next season.
It was something the EFL had to investigate, but he said his involvement was little more than being a fan going to games.
“One day it might happen and I might have to play Salford and I will be trying to beat them and they will be trying to beat me. My focus is now on Oldham Athletic,” explained Scholes who pointed out he is able to keep his shares but has had to resign as a director of the club.
Scholes, who spoke to Latics’ owner Abdallah Lemsagam early last season after John Sheridan’s sacking, explained it was “never an option” as caretaker manager Richie Wellens did so well that was given the job permanently.
Mr Lemsagan added he had known Scholes for one year and the timing was right for both parties.